I trust that we also remember that these Liberators colaborated with the British and exchanged runaway slaves for GUNS
a sad part of the reality >>>

In the vast mountains lived communities of fierce runaway slaves called Maroons, who constantly harassed planters with lightning raids on settlements and plantations.

In a sense, modern Jamaican society began in 1838. The newly freed slaves rapidly deserted the plantations and established themselves as free settlers in the hills, forming hard-working, independent peasantry which is still regarded as the backbone of Jamaica.

Since the turn of the century, sugar, banana, citrus, and coffee have become the main crops for export and the source of livelihood for thousands. Beginning in the 1950's the mining of alumina and bauxite - the raw ore of aluminum - have become major contributors to the economy, along with tourism.

For 300 years as a British colony, Jamaica had a stormy political life, with House of Assembly and vocal press providing the outlets for the vigorus creole politicians. But all real decisions affecting the country were made in England, and a vast majority of the people had neither say or representation in national life. Under successful nationalist leaders in the 20th century, the country began moving toward increasing autonomy in teh running of national affiars, culminating in full independence in 1962. A a n independent country, Jamaica remains a member of the British commonwealth of nations, with the Queen of England as titular Head of State, or represented locally by the Governor-General . The island has its own Constitution, based on inherited British legal, religious, educational and political traditions. Jamaica is a parlimentary democracy with an elected House of Representatives and nominated Upper House or Senate. There is a well-establised two-party system and vigorously contested elections are normally held every five years. All Jamaican's over the age of 18 years are eligible to vote.

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A History of Resistance

The British met fierce resistance from the Maroons when they reached Jamaica's interior. Under the lead of General Cudjoe, the Maroons successful sabotaged British settlers, and effectively camouflaged themselves in the dense vegetation of the Cockpit Country. After years of fighting and victories on both sides, the Maroons signed a treaty granting them full independence from Jamaica and a 1,500 acre tract of land in the western interior. In return the Maroons agreed to stop attacking the British and to return runaway slaves who sought asylum with them.